Apple fertiliser application strategies
Various nutrient applications strategies should be adopted in apple and pear orchards to ensure the right amount of each nutrient is available to the tree when required and in a form that is readily available.
In established orchards, dry-applied fertilisers can be broadcast across the soil surface or banded underneath trees.
Fertigation on the other hand provides nutrients more directly to the active root zone. It is a more efficient and precise way of meeting immediate needs. Drip systems provide a limited zone of moisture where roots can thrive. They also ensure better application uniformity for every plant, and allow the right nutrient to be applied at the right time and the right amount for optimum uptake. It is important to maintain correct nutrient ratios to ensure a tree’s needs are properly met throughout the production period.
Foliar application is used to address an immediate nutritional need or where soil conditions restrict availability of specific nutrients.
Fruit sprays are used to maximize fruit quality prior to harvesting, a complete coverage of the fruit is essential, especially when applying calcium or phosphorus/potassium for fruit color.
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